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Oxford Community Information Weekly Newsletter 23-3-25 This newsletter was started during the pandemic to inform about crime, scams and general interest for the community.
Collated and edited by volunteer Maggie Lewis, Area Representative and Administrator for Oxford Neighbourhood Watch Committee Member Thames Valley Neighbourhood Watch Association Cyberhood Watch Ambassador (National Neighbourhood Watch) SCAMbassador for Oxford (National Trading Standards)
You can join or apply to set up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme at https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/joinNW or any comments/information/queries or unsubscribing onw.enquiries@gmail.com Social Media sites https://www.facebook.com/groups/1937740226361938 (Oxford NW) https://www.facebook.com/groups/605172170528080 (Oxford NW Coordinators) https://www.facebook.com/groups/851711156124037 (Thames Valley Appeals) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1120468772825909 (Missing people in England and Wales) https://www.facebook.com/groups/550195784274126 (WANTED - Police appeals across England and Wales)
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH NETWORK 1) 5-year strategy HOME OFFICE 1) Revision to March 2024 Neighbourhood Policing Numbers POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER 1) This Week CAMBRIDGESHIRE CONSTABULARY 1) Use of 55 THAMES VALLEY POLICE 1) Missing person appeal 2) Convicted TVP OXFORD 1) Jailed 2) Harcourt Terrace - witness appeal 3) Oxford United match 4) The Retreat, Cowley 5) St Michaels Street NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING TEAMS 1) Drugs Supply and Money Laundering 2) Oxford South East 3) Oxford North East SCAM AWARENESS 1) Common scam calls 2) Why should I report a suspicious email? 3) Action Fraud 4) What happens after you report something to Action Fraud 5) Debt scams warning 6) Criminals impersonate well-known brands to link your card derails to their own digital wallets 7) Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) Cheatline 8) Charity Fraud 9) Investment scams (ISA) 10) Avoiding scam calls CRIME PREVENTION 1) Portable items 2) Keeping older people safe online 3) Pick pocketing safety information CRIME INFORMATION 1) Digital abuse 2) Coercive control 3) Do you know why it is important to not be a bystander? 4) Do more 5) Exploitation - spot the signs 6) Shifting the Scales OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 1) Are you ready for the County Council Elections? 2) Residents make recommendations for an improved Oxfordshire transport system 3) Are you looking for recipe inspiration for lunch, breakfast and dinner? 4) Surveys 5) Supporting you to change OXFORD CITY COUNCIL 1) Oxford Local Plan 2042 - early engagement survey 2) Improved bulky waste collection service 3) Museum of Oxford 4) Environment Agency and Thames Water 5) Increased grass cutting 6) Council meetings OXFORD DIRECT SERVICES 1) Easter 2) Planning a spring garden clean? GENERAL INFORMATION 1) Keep your car in top gear by checking the essentials 2) Did you have a few drinks last night? 3) Reporting neighbour disputes 4) Why dispose of dog poo safely? 5) Food Recalls 6) Product Recalls 7) NHS app 8) Bus service updates 9) Network Rail 10) The ‘Toxic’ Grave in Holywell Cemetery
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH NETWORK 1) 5-year strategy Our current 5-Year Strategy comes to an end in December 2025 and we are in the process of developing a new strategy. We are really interested in your thoughts, views and opinions about Neighbourhood Watch and what you think the movement should focus on over the next 5 years. The survey should take about 10 minutes and will give us a good insight into what you think and want. By analysing the survey results we will be able to hold more in depth and detailed workshops and consultation events with stakeholders develop a new strategy that is ambitious, relevant and reflective of the views of supporters, members, volunteer, the public and other stakeholders. Please complete the survey so we can hear your voice and views. https://survey.ourwatchmember.org.uk/Survey/REGISTRATION/A0B3EA5DE55D3CA0CF893B6C2B7BA301 Many thanks John Hayward-Cripps (CEO) and Ian Bretman (Chair of Trustees)
HOME OFFICE 1) Revision to March 2024 Neighbourhood Policing Numbers https://www.gov.uk/government/news/revision-to-march-2024-neighbourhood-policing-numbers Thames Valley PoliceA revision in previous statistics downwards by 33% for neighbourhood officers and 20% downwards for neighbourhood workforce overall Reason: Identified discrepancies in how neighbourhood policing roles were recorded, following a recent internal review. The issues stemmed from technical limitations and differences between job titles and the detail of roles performed by officers.
POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER 1) This Week 
CAMBRIDGESHIRE CONSTABULARY
1) Use of 55 Last week, we received a 999 call where the operator was met with silence... but instead of hanging up, she stayed on the line, as she could hear someone breathing After multiple attempts to engage with the caller, the operator asked them to press 55 on their keypad if they needed help, but couldn't talk out loud - which they did. The operator wasted no time and officers were dispatched to the caller's location. When they arrived, they found a frightened 14-year-old boy, who explained that he had been hiding in some bushes after being chased by two boys, who he believed had a knife. Officers took details of the incident as well as the boys' description, and took the 14-year-old to safety, before scoping the area for the boys in question. This is just one example of how police can still help you if you don't feel safe to talk on the phone in a dangerous situation. When you call 999, if you don't speak or answer questions, press 55 or tap when prompted and your call will be transferred to the police. Knowing this information could save a life.
THAMES VALLEY POLICE
1) Missing person Simon is aged 42, 5ft 7ins, with dark brown short hair and may be wearing a navy blue hat. Last seen in Thame, but has links to Henley, Brill and Headington in Oxfordshire and Oakley in Buckinghamshire. If you see Simon call 999, quoting 43250132984.  
2) Convicted Following a tireless investigation, three men have been convicted for their involvement in the theft of a £4.8m golden toilet from Blenheim Palace in 2019. From carrying out recces at the palace and booking to use the toilet itself, to planning and carrying out the theft and being involved in the sale of some of the gold afterwards. All three men were complicit. We are committed to bringing offenders to justice and hitting criminal in their pockets, so we'll be working with our partners to recover cash and assets in relation to the burglary.
TVP OXFORD 1) Jailed Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police, two men have been jailed for sex offences in Oxford. Ashley Mundee, aged 22, of Hertford Road, Enfield, London, has been jailed for four and a half years and is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for ten years. Huseyin Ninnolar, aged 23, of Bell Lane, Enfield, London, has been jailed for three years and four months. Mundee pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual activity with a child. Following a two week trial at Oxford Crown Court, Ninnolar was found guilty of one count of taking indecent images of a child. The jury found Mundee not guilty of two counts of rape. The jury found Ninnolar not guilty of two counts of rape, two counts of sexual activity with a child, one count of attempted rape, one count of sexual assault, and one count of intentional strangulation. Mundee met and groomed one of the victims online. Mundee and his friend, Ninnolar, then met with the victim and her friend, both aged 15, in Oxford, on 18 July last year. The defendants supplied the victims with drugs and alcohol before driving them to a secluded area where the offences against the two girls took place. Thames Valley Police arrested the defendants on the day of the offences and they were charged two days later. Investigating officer, Detective Constable Samuel Goodsell of Child Abuse Investigation Unit, said: “Both Ashley Mundee and Huseyin Ninnolar are predatory sex offenders. “They travelled to Oxfordshire for the sole purpose of meeting their victims and carrying out the offences they have been convicted of. “It was demonstrated in court that Mundee was well aware of his victims’ ages, but despite this carried out sexual activity with the children, which Ninnolar filmed. “I would like to commend the victims for their bravery and for placing their trust in the force. “If you are a victim of a sexual offence or have information about sexual offences please contact Thames Valley Police. We will listen and support you. “You can contact the force online, by calling 101 or visiting a police station.” Ninnolar was sentenced in January, while Mundee was sentenced on Friday (14/3).
2) Harcourt Terrace - witness appeal Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses to an arson in Headington. At approximately 2.36am on Harcourt Terrace on 18/3, an offender has set fire to items on the front drive as well as a car, and then fled the scene. No one was injured. Investigating officer Detective Sargent Matt Gorman, based at Oxford police station, said: “I understand there may be some concern caused by the nature of the incident but please be assured there is not thought to be any further risk to the wider public. “I am appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information about this arson to please come forward. “If you have CCTV cameras in the area or if you were driving in the area with a dash-cam, I’d also ask that you check your recordings in case it has captured something that could assist our investigation. “To contact us, call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43250131338. “Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”
3) Oxford United match Following a Thames Valley Police investigation, a man has been sentenced for possession of cocaine at a football match in Oxford. Daniel Wring, aged 34, of Chadleigh Grove, Bristol, was sentenced on Friday (14/3) at Oxford Magistrates’ Court to a three-year football banning order and ordered to pay a £120 fine, £85 in court costs and a £48 surcharge. In the same hearing, Wring pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled drug of class A, namely cocaine. At around 12.10pm on 1 February this year, Wring arrived at the Kassam Stadium as an away fan and was stopped and searched following intelligence that he was in possession of drugs. Officers located cocaine in his possession and he was subsequently arrested and was charged the same day. Dedicated football officer PC Alex Locke said: “I welcome the football banning order issued to Daniel Wring after he was caught in possession of cocaine at the Oxford United vs Bristol City fixture last month. “Football banning orders will not only restrict Wring from watching Bristol City FC, but also prevents him from attending any football match in the United Kingdom and some international matches and tournaments as well. “Thames Valley Police will continue to work in conjunction with Oxford United Football Club to make football matches a hostile place for all football-related offences.”
4) The Retreat, Cowley
Appeal 27th February 2025 19:00 - 19:30 hrs A spokesperson for the force said: "We are looking to identify the below person who may have vital information in relation to a transphobic assault that occurred. "Are you this person or did you also witness the assault? "Please get in touch to help us with our enquiries. "Please call 101 and quote the reference number 43250098924." Police guidance states people should call 999 in an emergency where there is immediate danger to life, someone is being violent, the suspect is still at the scene or if the crime is happening in the present.
 5) St Michaels Street Following a Thames Valley Police investigation a man has been sentenced in connection with a robbery in Oxford. Suhail Mitha, aged 33, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to three years and nine months’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to a count of robbery in a hearing at Oxford Crown Court on Tuesday (18/3). On 25 April 2023, at around midday, Suhail Mitha and Adil Khan attempted to steal a ring which later sold for £48,000 from an auctioneers on St. Michaels Street, Oxford. The security controller successfully prevented Adil Khan from making off, but suffered a bitten hand, bruising and a damaged watch in the tussle. During this time, Suhail Mitha is outside the auctioneers waiting in the car. He eventually gets out of the car, looks around and starts to walk towards the store. Mitha approached the door before slowly stepping back, returning to his car. He waited in his car for a short time before driving out of Oxford. Adil Khan was arrested at the scene and was charged the following day. He was sentenced to twelve years’ imprisonment and made subject to a Serious Violence Prevention Order following a hearing at Oxford Crown Court on 30 June 2023. Following a thorough investigation, Mitha was charged on 12 October last year. Investigating officer Detective Constable Chloe Epton, part of Oxford CID, said: “I am pleased that Suhail Mitha has been sentenced for his involvement in this incident. “I hope this results demonstrates that Thames Valley Police will pursue all lines of enquiry to bring offenders to justice. “I would like to commend the bravery of the security controller who stopped Adil Khan from escaping and meant officers could arrest him, investigate him and put him before the courts.”
NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING TEAMS 1) Drugs Supply and Money Laundering On March 21st, Neighbourhood Officers arrested a male for Drugs Supply and Money Laundering offences as a result of an on-going investigation. Working with other Neighbourhood Teams across the force, specialist search officers and with dedicated Detectives from our Priority Crime Team, we have conducted a number of further searches across Oxford with a number of items being seized & examined by our forensic teams. If you have any information regards to drugs use, supply & other related offences, please report it to us online or on 101. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously via CrimeStoppers on the below link:
2) Oxford South East The South East Oxford Neighbourhood Police Team and our partners from Oxford City Council have obtained a closure order for an address in Blackbird Leys following numerous reports from members of the public regarding anti-social behaviour and criminality surrounding the address We work closely with our partners and stakeholders to tackle crime and ASB, the closure order is currently in place and we will be proactive in dealing with any breaches If you have any concerns or would like to speak with any of our Officers please don't hesitate to speak to whilst we are out on patrol, report online via our website or call us via 101 or 999.
3) Oxford North East This morning the North East Oxford Neighbourhood Team conducted an educational operation surrounding the use of illegal E-scooters at various locations in the North East. This is after concerns from the community with these being used in a dangerous manner, and causing a huge risk to the public and users of these. 3 illegal E-scooters were seized and riders educated. Please do continue to report your concerns to us within your community. 
SCAM AWARENESS 1) Common scam calls
A cold caller tries to sell insurance for white goods, SKY equipment, TVs, or other appliances. They may tell you that the insurance is due to be renewed and could ask for your bank details to process the payment.
A cold caller says that they are from your bank and tries to obtain your account details. or ask you to transfer money to another bank account. They may say that money has been transferred overseas from your account or that your account has been compromised.
A cold caller tells you that your plumbing or drainage cover needs renewed or that you need a new boiler. They could ask for your bank details to process the payment.
A cold caller may tell you that you are eligible for green deal funding, grants or free insulation. They often ask you to pay for the products up front or take out a loan.
A cold caller says that your Amazon Prime subscription is due for renewal or that there are issues with your account. They may ask for your bank details or ask you to allow them to access your computer remotely.
A cold caller says that they are calling from your internet provider or Microsoft and asks you to download software or visit a website which will allow them to access your computer remotely.
A cold caller says that they are calling from the Telephone Preference Service and offers to block nuisance calls for a fee. They may ask for your personal and bank details.
A cold caller says that you have won a competition, prize draw or lottery. They may ask for your contact details and your bank details to pay a small ‘processing fee’.
A cold caller says that they are carrying out a survey. The purpose of these surveys is to gather your personal data, to be passed on to other cold calling companies
2) Why should I report a suspicious email? If you have received an email which you’re not quite sure about, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk The purpose of a scam email is often to get you to click a link. This will take you to a website which might download a virus to your computer, or steal passwords or other personal information. This is sometimes known as 'phishing'. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has the power to investigate and remove scam email addresses and websites. It's free to report a suspicious email and it only takes a minute. By reporting phishing attempts you can:
Most phone providers are part of a scheme that allows customers to report suspicious text messages for free by forwarding it to 7726. They can then investigate the origin of the text and arrange to block or ban the sender if it is found to be malicious. For more info visit: https://orlo.uk/lFQsl
3) Action Fraud Protect your online accounts from hackers and enable 2SV: Action Fraud issue new warning about social media and email account hacking as new data is revealed. This year Action Fraud and Meta are encouraging the public to protect their social media and email accounts as data shows there were more than 35,000 reports made last year. Data shows there was a rise of social media and email account hacking reported in 2024, with a total of 35,434 reports made to Action Fraud, compared to 22,530 reports made in 2023. Action Fraud, the national fraud and cybercrime reporting service, has launched a campaign, supported by Meta, to encourage people to take an extra step of online protection by enabling 2-Step Verification for each online account they have. The warning comes as reporting shows nearly £1 million was lost to hackers last year.
The most common motives for social media hacking were either investment fraud, ticket fraud or theft of the targeted account, reporting insights revealed.
This is when a fraudster gains control of an account and begins to impersonate the legitimate owner. The goal is to convince people to reveal authentication codes, including one-time passcodes, that are sent to them via text. Many victims of this type of hacking believe it’s a friend messaging them, however the shared code was associated with their own account and the impersonator can now use it to access their account. Usually when an account is taken over, fraudsters monetise control of the account via the promotion of various fraudulent schemes, like fake tickets or crypto investment schemes, while impersonating the original account owner.
The other common method of hacking is when account details are gained via phishing scams, or the use of leaked information used from data breaches, such as leaked passwords. This becomes prevalent as people often use the same password for multiple accounts, so a leaked password from one website can leave many of their online accounts vulnerable to hacking.
4) What happens after you report something to Action Fraud After you’ve reported something to Action Fraud, your report will be sent to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB), which is part of the City of London police. They’ll decide what to do next. If the NFIB decide there might be enough information in your report for the police to investigate, they'll send it to the local police force for the place the crime happened. That police force will look at the information and decide whether to investigate the case. They should tell you what they’re going to do. Whether or not the NFIB decide to send your report on to local police to investigate, you’ll be told what the NFIB have done within 28 days of when you made your report (or whenever you last sent an update). The NFIB might also take other action, for example to take down websites or phone numbers that are used to commit fraud.
To be able to get an update on your report, you need to register with Action Fraud before you make your report. Then you can track the progress of your report by logging into your account. After logging in, to check your report’s status click ‘My account’ in the top-right hand corner then click ‘My reports’. Once a case has been passed to a local police force, they’re responsible for keeping you updated.
5) Debt scams warning A letter, call, email, text or doorstep visit demanding debt payment can be an alarming and confusing experience – particularly if it comes out of the blue. If you don't recognise the debt, you need to be wary and verify the request before paying up, as not all such demands are genuine.
6) Criminals impersonate well-known brands to link your card derails to their own digital wallets International organised crime groups impersonating well-known brands and retailers are attempting to steal your card information, warns Cifas, the Cyber Defence Alliance and UK Finance. These scams typically begin as texts, such as those offering to help with your bills or telling you about a parking charge, or as social media ads boasting tempting offers or closing down sales. They lead to malicious websites which ask for your card details.
7) Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) Cheatline Report insurance scams to the IFB CheatLine (powered by CrimeStoppers) on 0800 422 0421 or online. It's free, anonymous and completely confidential. The IFB's CheatLine is a free and confidential way for anyone to report insurance fraud. Each month, around 500 reports are received by the IFB, via either the free-phone number, which is powered by Crimestoppers, or through the online form. Information submitted to the CheatLine complements the wide array of data from the insurance industry and other agencies, giving us a unique insight into organized insurance fraud in the UK. Together, this information helps us identify fraudsters and work with others to bring them to justice, as well as help insurers avoid having to pay out fraudulent claims.
Drivers warned not to hand over details in new twist on ‘crash for cash’ scam Motorists are being urged by a fraud-fighting body not to be pressured by “crash for cash” scammers into handing over unnecessary details following an accident, such as photos of their insurance certificate and driving licence. The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) warned that handing over such information could lead to identity theft. In the latest twist on the crash for cash scam, moped scammers are persuading victims, who may be distressed or confused, to show a copy of their insurance certificate or driving licence, which is then photographed at the roadside. The details may be used in a range of financial crimes, including taking out fraudulent insurance policies. Not every crash is an accident... "Crash for Cash" is a term used to describe a fraudulent insurance claim for a motor collision. These scams range from paper-based fabrications to physical collisions involving innocent road users, in order to profit from fraudulent insurance claims. The scam sadly causes countless injuries and tragically in some cases fatalities. Induced car collisions involving innocent drivers are often caused by fraudsters who slam their brake at busy junctions and roundabouts in the hope that the driver behind won’t stop in time. Some fraudsters do this with an accomplice that drives erratically in front of them, so they can divert the victim’s suspicions by blaming the driver in front. Some of these fraudsters also crash into innocent drivers who have been encouraged to pull out of a side road, or as they creep forward for a better view. https://insurancefraudbureau.org/insurance-fraud/the-cheatline
8) Charity Fraud Giving to charity? Make sure it's genuine. Check the charity name and registration number at: http://gov.uk/checkcharity The risk of fraud should not put you off donating. For more tips on how to donate safely, visit: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/charityfraud  9) Investment scams (ISA) The ISA deadline is coming up so it’s an important time to keep your guard up against investment scams. Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. It could help keep you safe
Share this with your family and friends to help everyone keep safe from investment fraud in the lead up to the ISA deadline on 5 April 2025.
10) Avoiding scam calls
CRIME PREVENTION 1) Portable items Thieves often target small, easily portable items that can be hidden in their pockets. Jewellery in bedrooms is a common target, often holding sentimental value and being irreplaceable. Simply hiding these items in a drawer or wardrobe isn't enough, as these are usually the first spots burglars check. Consider using an accredited fire rated safe for important and valuable items. https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime/
2) Keeping older people safer online Whilst the world of the Internet offers great opportunities for young and old alike, it also presents many risks. Older persons are equally, if not more, susceptible to Fraud. A recent crime survey stated that more than a fifth of respondents aged 65 years and over had been a victim of fraud last year. Older victims of fraud may also become more secretive about what has happened because of the feelings of shame and guilt they have through falling to the fraudsters. So why not sit down and have a chat with older family members, friends or neighbours about staying safe online, on the phone and even on the doorstep? Talk to them about the different types of fraud to watch out for and how they can protect themselves. Types of Fraud As technology becomes more sophisticated, so do the techniques used by criminals. They now use a wide variety of methods to trick people, the most frequent are listed below:
How to protect yourself against fraud If you receive a request to provide personal or financial information whether that’s over the phone, in an email, online or through social media always remember:
3) Pick pocketing safety information Please always remember to know exactly where your valuable items are when shopping. Pick pockets will target people who have their phones in their back pockets, handbags unzipped etc. Be aware of who is in your personal space when shopping etc. Remember these kinds of offenders are very subtle and good at what they do, so stay alert and know your surroundings.
CRIME INFORMATION 1) Digital abuse Digital abuse is when someone monitors, stalks, harasses, threatens, controls, or impersonates another person using technology. This could involve stalking through social media, harassment by text message or humiliation by posting pictures or videos, for example. Digital abuse can happen to anyone, but it most often happens alongside other types of domestic abuse. It’s not your fault if you’re being abused, you have the right to privacy online and offline. You should always do what’s safe for you, and consider what steps you could take to keep yourself safe from digital abuse.
2) Coercive control Domestic abuse and coercive & controlling behaviour can have an effect on wellbeing and mental health, which may cause people to consider harming themselves. If you or someone you know is suffering such abuse, please reach out for help. You can access support services regardless of whether you have reported a crime to the police. To access support services independently, contact Victim First https://www.victims-first.org.uk/crime-info/guidance-and-support/domestic-abuse/ Or via Every Life Matters - https://www.every-life-matters.org.uk/support-landing-page/ If you have been the victim of domestic abuse, or are concerned for someone who is, you can report this by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
3) Do you know why it is important to not be a bystander? Have you ever witnessed something but not taken any action, hoping someone else will? This is the Bystander Effect; where individuals are less likely to help a victim when in the presence of other people. This is often because individuals believe it is not their responsibility to help or are nervous to step in and intervene, hoping that someone else in the crowd will. This can apply to issues such as hate crime, misogynistic behaviour, knife crime, sexual harassment, and domestic violence. Here's how you can intervene safely and effectively when you see or hear inappropriate behaviour.
To contact the police with non-emergency enquiries call 101. In an emergency, always call 999.
4) Do more You're walking home from the pub with your mates, why would you cat-call her? Whether they've had a drink or not, it's not okay to cat-call a woman ever. If you see them harassing a woman, tell them to stop. Let them know it’s not okay and ask her if she’s alright. If we all do more, we can help stop violence against women and girls.
5) Exploitation - spot the signs  6) Shifting the Scales
OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 1) Are you ready for the County Council Elections? To vote in May, you must register by 11 April. Are you ready for the County Council Elections? If you are voting for the first time or have recently moved house you will need to register to vote by 11 April. Elections are on Thursday 1 May 2025. See: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote 
2) Residents make recommendations for an improved Oxfordshire transport system Participants of Oxfordshire County Council’s first citizens’ assembly on travel and transport presented their 20 recommendations to council decision makers on Sunday 16 March, at the assembly’s final session. The council’s cabinet will be asked to agree how these recommendations will be responded to at its meeting on Tuesday 25 March.
3) Are you looking for recipe inspiration for lunch, breakfast and dinner? We're sharing the best tips and ideas to help you reduce the food waste and save money right here: https://mailchi.mp/oxfordshire.gov.uk/25-002-food-waste-action-week-wrap
4) Surveys
We are inviting residents, businesses and visitors to have their say on potential street improvements for the city centre and north Oxford. This call for ideas is part of the Central Oxfordshire Movement and Place Framework (COMPF), a project aimed at reimagining Oxford's public realm and to start conversations about the future of our streets and squares. https://letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/compf Closing date 23 March 2025
https://letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/oxford_frenchayroad_parking2025 Closing date 28 March 2025
https://letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/oxford_a4165a4158_sret2025 Closing date 28 March 2025
https://letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/a4144woodstockroad_buslaneparking_experiment2024 Closing date 28 March 2025
5) Supporting you to change Are you looking to change your drinking habits but unsure how to begin? DrinkCoach online coaching could help you reduce your alcohol intake. Answer a few simple questions and start your journey today. Find out if you're eligible https://drinkcoach.org.uk/oxfordshire-alcohol-test
OXFORD CITY COUNCIL 1) Oxford Local Plan 2042 - early engagement survey The preparation of the new Local Plan will build on the previous draft, although it will be a new document. All previous consultation material, background studies and evidence base documents are being reviewed. The Local Development Scheme contains details of planned consultations and an estimated timeline for the adoption of the Plan. We are carrying out an early involvement exercise prior to the legally required stages to seek early views from residents, businesses, and other bodies to help identify the main issues being faced. Responses are vitally important as they will be used to shape options under consideration for inclusion as policies in the Local Plan. We will be collecting views through a survey hosted our online Consultation Portal (https://consultation.oxford.gov.uk/planning-services/localplan2042-earlyengagement/ ) and it will be open between Monday 17 March and Monday 28 April 2025. Please contact planningpolicy@oxford.gov.uk for any further questions
2) Improved bulky waste collection service The City Council and ODS will:
3) Museum of Oxford 4) Environment Agency and Thames Water A partnership with the Environment Agency (EA) has secured the infrastructure needed to allow 18,000 new homes in and around Oxford, delivering change in the area in line with the Government’s ambition to unlock growth. The EA had previously challenged planning applications for new housing over concerns about sewage treatment capacity which posed a risk to water quality if developments had gone ahead as planned. Following a rigorous process to find a solution to unlock the new homes, the EA, Oxford City Council and Thames Water have now agreed a scheme which can provide the capacity needed at the Sewage Treatment Works to allow for the occupation of development from 2027, in line with local plans.
5) Increased grass cutting Our updated roadside grass verge cutting schedule will start next week across Oxford. We manage the majority of grass highways in Oxford, as part of a service on behalf of – and paid for – by Oxfordshire County Council. Grass verges in Oxford are then mown by ODS on behalf of the Councils. In 2023, Oxfordshire County Council introduced a new verge maintenance policy, which resulted in grass verges in Oxford being cut once a year. Now, following significant public feedback and budget approval in February 2025, we will be funding two additional cuts for the majority of verges across the city, alongside the single cut paid for by Oxfordshire County Council. The exception to this will be nine dedicated biodiversity grass verges around the city. These nine biodiversity verges have been identified as biodiverse habitats, following an ecological assessment. These biodiversity grass verges will only be mown once a year in September and the cuttings removed.
6) Council meetings
Cabinet Meeting: Wednesday 19 March, 6pm. OX Place, Shareholder and Joint Venture Group: Wednesday 19 March, 6.30pm.
Council meetings take place at Oxford Town Hall and are open to the public. Council Meeting: Monday 24 March, 5pm. Planning Review Committee: Tuesday 25 March, 6pm. Scrunity Committee: Wednesday 26 March, 6pm. Climate and Environment Panel (Panel of the Scrutiny Committee): Thursday 27 March, 6pm.
OXFORD DIRECT SERVICES 1) Easter This Easter let's make a conscious effort to reduce our waste and recycle where possible. After indulging in delicious chocolate treats and festive meals, be sure to recycle any foil wrappers, cardboard packaging, and other recyclable materials. By doing so, we can reduce our waste and improve recycling. There will be no changes to bin collections over the Easter weekend so please put your bins out as normal.
2) Planning a spring garden clean? With spring around the corner and the weather showing signs of improvement, now is the time to start thinking about getting out into the garden. You can sign up to our Garden Waste Collection Scheme where we collect your garden waste from your home every two weeks for recycling. ODS collects grass cuttings, flowers, branches, hedge trimmings, leaves, plants and weeds. Your garden waste goes to a composting plant in Wallingford and turned into compost, which is used to grow crops on local farmland. https://www.oxford.gov.uk/garden-waste
GENERAL INFORMATION 1) Keep your car in top gear by checking the essentials Regularly check:
2) Did you have a few drinks last night? If you've been out drinking, you may still be affected by alcohol the next day and could lose your licence if you drive and are still over the legal limit. It's impossible to get alcohol out of your system quickly – it always takes time. A shower, a cup of coffee or other ways of ‘sobering up’ may make you feel better but won’t remove the alcohol from your system. Alcohol affects everyone differently and any amount can impair your ability to drive. The only safe option is to avoid alcohol completely if you’re driving as even ‘just one drink’ could put you over the limit. If you’re driving, don’t drink any alcohol at all.
3) Reporting neighbour disputes We don’t always see eye-to-eye with our neighbours, but in most cases simply talking peacefully to one another is the best way to solve a problem. However, if talking hasn’t worked or you can’t discuss the issue with your neighbour, find out how you can get help to resolve the issue. Common types of neighbour disputes Living in such close proximity to one another, it’s no surprise that disputes with neighbours can get heated quite quickly. The most common ones relate to:
It’s important to note that most of these cases are not matters for the police, although there are some circumstances when you should contact them. You can read more information on who to report matters to below. What is the impact?Disagreements between neighbours, however small, can fester over time and do lasting damage to your relationships in the long term. It is usually best to raise your concerns with your neighbour and find amicable solutions as early as possible. If you can’t resolve a dispute with a neighbour, it can really wear you down. This can have a serious effect on your quality of life, especially if it leads to you feeling threatened, isolated or scared in your own home or community. What you can doAlways talk to your neighbour if possible and try to resolve the issue peacefully. If you have a difference of opinion, see if you can find a compromise that works for both of you, such as no loud music after 11pm. If talking hasn’t worked If you live in rented property or social housing, your landlord or housing association may be able to help you. If the problem involves noise, such as a loud party or dogs barking, please contact your local council as this isn’t a police matter. For disagreements over boundary walls, fences, trees or hedges, contact Citizens Advice for free information and support. In some cases, you may also want to contact a solicitor. You can also refer to government guidance at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/preventing-and-resolving-disputes-in-relation-to-party-walls/the-party-wall-etc-act-1996-explanatory-booklet For more information on reporting a civil dispute, please use the online civil dispute reporting service https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/ro/report/cd/civil-dispute/ If you feel targeted or intimidated If the problems have escalated or you’ve been threatened, verbally abused, or personally targeted please report to the police at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/
4) Why dispose of dog faeces safely? Dog fouling is a nuisance, & it's associated with various diseases including Toxocara canis. This parasite is very common in puppies, and less common in adult dogs who may have no symptoms. About 5% of adult dogs may be infected at any given time. T canis can infect people who touch soil contaminated by infected faeces. Children & young people are especially vulnerable. In humans, the parasite can infect organs including the lungs, liver, and the back of the eye (which can result in blindness). So please dispose of your dog poo safely. You can buy bags for less than 1p each, clip a bag holder to your lead & dispose of dog waste in any local authority litter bin. Please note: bagging up dog faeces even in biodegradable poo bags doesn’t make it OK to leave it lying around.
5) Food Recalls
Waitrose & Partners recalls Essential Waitrose & Partners Seafood Sticks because the product shows an incorrect best before date, making it unsafe to eat.
Iceland Foods Ltd is recalling Iceland Vegetable Lasagne because it may contain pieces of plastic. The possible presence of plastic makes this product unsafe to eat. https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/fsa-alerts-files/production/FSA-PRIN-12-2025/FSA-PRIN-12-2025.pdf 
Safa Food 1 Limited is recalling Dolma Spices because they contain peanuts which are not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts.
Rude Health Foods Ltd is recalling Rude Health Chocolate Crunch Granola because the product might contain insects. No other batches of the Chocolate Crunch Granola or other Rude Health products are affected by this recall. Rude Health products are available to buy at Amazon, Ocado, Holland & Barrett, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Waitrose, Tesco and Abel & Cole Pack size: 400g Batch code: PD24102024 Best before: October 24, 2025 
Goodies Food Mediterranean is recalling three Al Burj Halva products because they contain sesame which is not mentioned on the label. This means the products are a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to sesame.
Damasgate Wholesale is recalling Sofra Garlic Powder because it contains peanuts which are not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts. This recall has been updated to include all batches of garlic powder.
6) Product Recalls
Hazard: The product presents a serious risk of electric shock as using the product in a microwave oven for purposes other than intended poses a risk of overheating and can cause internal damage to internal components and electrical wiring.
Hazard: The product presents a high risk of injuries and drowning as a quality issue in the Electronic Vessel Control system (EVC2) software may, under certain rare circumstances, cause an unexpected loss of control of the gearchange function.
Hazard: The product has been identified as presenting a serious risk of injuries. The product has two FAST LT buckles on the back, which are used to close the harness. These buckles can break during normal use.
Hazard: The product has been identified as presenting a serious risk of injuries. The product has a FAST LT buckle on the chest, which is used to close the harness. This buckle can break during normal use.
Hazard: The affected batch presents a microbiological risk as it is contaminated with aerobic mesophilic bacteria.
7) NHS app Millions of people are using the NHS App to manage their health the easy way, from ordering a prescription to checking their records.  8) Bus service updates
17th - 28th Mar 2025
Due to roadworks, the JR Hospital-bound Barton Park West End stop will be temporarily suspended between 17/03 and 28/03. During this time, a temporary stop will be provided near the junction with Cherry Tree Avenue.
7th - 24th Mar 2025
21st - 24th Mar 2025
The M25 will be closed between junctions 10 and 11 from 21:00 on Friday, 21st March, until 05:30 on Monday, 24th March 2025. During this time, our Airline services operating to/from Gatwick will use a diversionary route, adding extra time to the journey. We will follow a special timetable which has been added to our website for this period, to account for the proposed delays.
Changes to Oxford SmartZone ticket prices from Sunday 30th March 2025 The Oxford SmartZone scheme, comprising of bus companies Stagecoach, Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel have announced increases to the core SmartZone product range from 30th March 2025, with this being the first increase since March 2024. Oxford SmartZone fares from 30th March can be viewed https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/oxfordshire/smartzone-fares
9) Network Rail
On Wednesday (19 March) Thames Water successfully completed the second stage of work to connect the new water main pipe under the railway bridge to the existing network. The work took place on the eastern side of the bridge, by Becket Street.
Thames Water have also completed their work to pressure-test the new water main pipe, so have begun removing their excavation shown in the image below.  That means the walkway can be returned to its usual route on the southern side of the road, by Becket Street. The work on the walkway will take place over this weekend, and it is due to be moved back on Sunday (23 March).
Work is continuing on the site under the railway bridge to remove the concrete guide wall that was installed as a temporary measure in 2023. Now redundant, its purpose was to hold piles in the ground that formed a watertight barrier to allow the utility trench to be dug. They are also breaking out the remaining concrete left from the foundations of the youth hostel building that was previously on the site. All of this is to prepare the ground for installing the drainage system that will go underneath the new four-metre wide walkway/cycleway that will be constructed there as part of the new bridge. This will include construction of maintenance chambers.
Last Friday (14 March) Osney Lane footbridge was closed to prepare for installation of a new cycle rail. This involved replacing timbers with new wood to hold the mounts for the cycle rail. The rail will be installed on steps on both sides of the bridge, making it easier for cyclists to push their bikes over the footbridge.
A reminder that our next public engagement event to update on project progress is scheduled for Wednesday 26 March at the King’s Centre on Osney Mead between 5pm and 6pm.  10) The ‘Toxic’ Grave in Holywell Cemetery This is the grave in Holywell Cemetery of Robert James Wilson, Warden of Keble College, who died on 15 May 1897. The startlingly white section in the middle looks brand new because the circular lead plaque it bears is so poisonous that even after 128 years it continues to contaminate the rainwater that washes down each side, keeping that section of the vault spotlessly clean and free from moss and lichen.  Other interesting graves in Holywell Cemetery The casket tomb of Lewis Theodore Pilcher (1889–1893) Lewis Theodore Pilcher, the four-year-old boy shown as a sleeping angel on this tomb, was born in the Marylebone district in 1889. In May 1893 Lewis (aged four years and two months) had come down from Yorkshire with his nurse Elizabeth Sibley (30) to stay with his paternal grandmother at 3 Norham Gardens. His nurse took him out to fish for minnows in the Thames near Medley, but it appears that he fell into the water and that his nurse entered the river to try and save him. Both were drowned. The child and his nurse were buried near each other in Holywell Cemetery (Plot B/111). His parents, who had no other surviving children, became key figures in women's suffrage: https://www.exploringsurreyspast.org.uk/themes/subjects/womens-suffrage/suffrage-biographies/sophia-and-giles-theodore-pilcher/ His grandmother Anna Clarissa Pilcher was still living at 3 Norham Gardens in Oxford when she died at Tenby on 21 August 1899.  The canopied tomb of Henry Beaumont Coles Bird (1845–1856) Henry became a chorister boarding at Magdalen College School in Oxford. He died of typhoid fever at the school at the age of 11 on 28 October 1856 and was buried in Holywell Cemetery. An elaborate canopied tomb designed by J.C. Buckler and carved by Thomas Earp of Lambeth was erected over his grave, and G. V. Cox in his Reminiscences of Oxford describes his burial and expresses surprise at the grandeur of the tomb:
 The First World War wooden cross of Ronald Poulton (1889–1915) This wooden cross set into the wall of Holywell Cemetery originally stood in Flanders on the grave of Lieutenant Ronald William Poulton-Palmer (originally Ronald William Poulton), one of the greatest rugby players of all time, who was killed in Ploegsteert Wood at the age of 25 on 5 May 1915. He lived with his parents at Wykeham House, 56 Banbury Road, Oxford. 
I hope you have an enjoyable week Take care, Maggie Lewis | ||||||||||
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